Haps Weekend Picks August 3,4,5

BUSAN, South Korea — July has come to an end, and with that, the first weekend of August is packed with things to do as vacation season in Korea hits full-swing. You may want to note that many businesses take this weekend off for their holidays, so plan accordingly. It's also usually the busiest week of the year at the beaches, so get their early to reserve your little piece of real estate on the beach.

This weekend is highlighted by the Haps 20th issue launch party, as well as many festivals in Haeundae, the Busan International Rock Festival, and loads of other fun things to do.

You can check out the Haps Calendar for everything going on around the area this weekend. Go on out and enjoy!

Live Music @ The Wolfhound – Jen Sotham gets the new weekly acoustic sets going at Wolfhound this Friday, and the "pour your own doubles" are on tap as well at Busan's favorite Irish pub. Friday, 10 p.m., The Wolfhound, Haeundae.

Busan International Rock Festival@ Samnak Park – This passionate gathering of some popular up and coming rock groups from around the world, and this feast of rock music is expected to attract not only Busan citizens, but enthusiastic rock music lovers from across Korea and abroad. August 3-5, 4 p.m., Samnak Park.

The Ha Ha Hole @ Soul Trane – Admission is free to the monthly Ha Ha Hole, where local funny guys and gals get onstage to make you laugh. Oh, and it's air-conditioned, too! Friday, 10 p.m., Soul Trane, PNU.

Ladies Night @ The Moose – Enjoy the upstairs beer garden and Turkish food, as well as three free mixers for the ladies between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. every Friday. Friday, 8 p.m., The Moose, PNU.

Haps Launch Party @ Sharky's G and Beached – Come on out and celebrate our 20th issue this Saturday with an all-day bash out at the beach. Great music and prizes to be had, and the talented Gino Brann on the guitar will be there to entertain. Saturday, 2 p.m. – late, Sharky's Gwangan and Beached Bar, Gwangalli.

Baseball – Lotte vs. Samsung – The battle of two of the best teams in the league this year takes place in town this weekend, as Samsung visits Sajik for a three-game set against the Giants. Friday through Sunday, 6:30 pm Friday, 5p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sajik Stadium, Sajik-dong.

Football – Ulsan vs. Suwon – Ulsan FC look to move up their position in the K League with an important match against Suwon. Sunday, 5 p.m., Munsu Stadium, Ulsan.